Discover East County

In Episode 28 of Discover East County , we sit down with Jonny Van Ommering, a third-generation member of the family behind Oma's Family Farm, one of East County's most cherished family destinations. Jonny shares the incredible story of how his grandparents immigrated from the Netherlands and built a dairy farm in Lakeside that would eventually become Oma's Family Farm. Today, the farm has become...

In Episode 27 of Discover East County , we sit down with the new owners of The Grinder, the iconic El Cajon sandwich shop that has been serving the community for decades. Taking over a beloved local institution comes with big shoes to fill, and we talk about what inspired them to take on the challenge, how they're honoring The Grinder's legacy, and what customers can expect as they lead the next c...

In Episode 26 of Discover East County , we sit down with Angela May, founder of Stoney Oaks Ranch in Alpine a place where horses, leadership, and community come together to make a lasting impact. What started as a passion for horsemanship has grown into a thriving ranch that serves hundreds of local youth and families through riding lessons, camps, leadership programs, and hands-on experiences tha...

In Episode 25 of Discover East County , we sit down with Brandi Terra, Nurse Practitioner and founder of Oak & Stone Wellness & Med Spa in El Cajon. Brandi has built her practice around a simple philosophy: helping people feel their best from the inside out. Through a blend of wellness-focused care, hormone optimization, and advanced aesthetic treatments, she takes a personalized approach...

In Episode 24 of Discover East County , we sit down with Kelsey Hurley, the young entrepreneur behind Saltwater Riders a brand that blends the surf, western, and rodeo lifestyles she grew up living right here in East County. Raised in Alpine, Kelsey built her love for fashion, hard work, and community from an early age. At just 23 years old, she took a leap of faith and purchased Saltwater Riders,...

In Episode 23 of Discover East County , we sit down with Scott Goergens, Superintendent of the Lakeside Union School District, to talk about the future of education and the importance of investing in local students and families. Scott shares his perspective on leadership in education, the challenges schools are facing today, and the work being done to create opportunities for the next generation i...

In Episode 22 of Discover East County , we sit down with Amy Reichert from Restore San Diego to talk about her work alongside investigative journalist Nick Shirley in uncovering fraud across California. Amy shares what sparked this deep dive, what they’ve uncovered, and why bringing transparency to these issues matters more than ever. It’s a conversation centered around accountability, persistence...

In Episode 21 of Discover East County , we sit down with Damien Kvanda from Fit Foundary—who’s making a real impact as a soccer coach dedicated to helping young athletes reach their full potential. Damien shares his approach to coaching, focusing on building confidence, discipline, and strong fundamentals both on and off the field. It’s not just about developing great players—it’s about shaping dr...

In Episode 20 of Discover East County , we sit down with Andrew Hayes an East County native who’s been deeply involved in local leadership, from serving on the Lakeside Union School District Board to working as a District Director representing the region at the state level. Born and raised in East County, Andrew shares his journey through public service, his passion for the community, and what it...

In Episode 19 of Discover East County, we sit down with Jill Fleming and Nikki Arias to learn about the powerful mission behind the 678 Scholarship Program. Jill, the Executive Director, shares how this long-running program—home to the Miss Lakeside, Miss Ramona, and Miss Julian pageants—has been shaping confident, capable young women for decades. With Miss Lakeside now in its 65th year, Jill’s le...

In Episode 18 of Discover East County, we meet Ray Neder, owner of R Neder Construction! 🏗️ With decades of experience and a reputation for quality craftsmanship, Ray has built more than just homes—he’s built trust throughout East County. From custom projects to community development, his commitment to integrity and excellence shines through in every build. 🛠️ Ray shares insights into what it take...

In Episode 17 of Discover East County, we meet Jaysen Brown, pastor of Victory Baptist Church. With a heart for service and community, Jaysen shares how the church is more than a place of worship—it’s a place where people can find hope, support, and connection. From outreach programs to building relationships that strengthen East County, his mission is to help others grow in faith and life. Don’t...

In Episode 16 of Discover East County , we sit down with Garrett Grant, the owner of GMG RV Rentals. Garrett shares the story behind his family-owned business, how they’re helping people experience the freedom of RV travel, and the adventures their customers embark on when they hit the open road. From family vacations to weekend getaways, GMG RV Rentals is about creating lasting memories and makin...

This week we sit down with Ashley & Anthony Carnevale, two community advocates making an impact in East County schools. 🏫 Anthony serves on the Cajon Valley Union School District board, while Ashley is a passionate parent voice for students and families. Together, they share their perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing local education from advocating for kids and teachers to n...

Get ready for Episode 14 of Discover East County featuring New Home Palooza , San Diego County’s premier free open house weekend! Explore the latest new homes, condos, and apartments for sale or rent from top builders all in one accessible event Join us as we dive into this exciting yearly tradition, where nearly 100 newly constructed properties are showcased across the county. Whether you’re buyi...

Meet Jeff Bloom, President and lead auctioneer of Fischer Auction & Appraisal, in Episode 13 of Discover East County! 🛠️ With over 30 years of experience and a licensed auctioneer since 1971, Jeff brings a wealth of expertise to managing everything from business liquidations to machinery and vehicle auctions across the region Join us as we explore how Jeff’s commitment to integrity and client-...

Meet Jamie Leonhardi, Director of Business Development at Superior Abatement Services, featured in Episode 12 of Discover East County! 🛠️ With a deep-rooted commitment to safety and community well-being, Jamie plays a pivotal role in providing efficient solutions for the removal of environmental hazards like asbestos and mold. Superior Abatement Services brings over 100 years of combined experienc...

Meet Gabe Matthews, CEO of Christian Brothers Emergency Building Services, featured in Episode 11 of Discover East County! 🛠️✨ Gabe has been with Christian Brothers since birth and officially began his career there in 2001. Under his leadership, the company has grown from 4 to 38 employees, becoming a trusted name in emergency building services throughout East County. Beyond his professional achi...

Meet the team behind Blissful Wellness & Aesthetics, featured in Episode 10 of Discover East County! 🌿✨ Located in El Cajon, this wellness center is dedicated to helping clients look and feel their best through personalized care and advanced treatments. Blissful Wellness & Aesthetics offers a range of services designed to rejuvenate and enhance natural beauty, including neuromodulators,...

Meet Blaine Butler, the visionary founder of Momma Pots, on Discover East County! 🌿✨ Inspired by her San Diego childhood spent exploring creeks and gardens, Blaine turned her love for nature into a thriving business. After a life-changing car accident, she left a 15-year restaurant career to start Momma Pots from her garage in 2017. Today, her vibrant, handcrafted ceramic planters are a staple f...

In this heartfelt episode of Discover East County, I sit down with my dear friend Rhina, founder of EP Save A Life Foundation. After losing her son to sudden cardiac arrest, Rhina channeled her grief into creating an organization dedicated to preventing similar tragedies through heart screenings, CPR training, and AED donations in our community. For 16 years, I've witnessed Rhina's strength and de...

Hey everyone, Valli here! Today I'm sharing why I'm so passionate about serving East County and highlighting our incredible local businesses. Our community is filled with amazing entrepreneurs who deserve recognition but often don't get the spotlight they've earned. Discover East County is my way of elevating these businesses and bringing awareness to the incredible work happening right in our bac...

GAME-CHANGING Steel Fabrication: Inside Titan Steel Fabricator’s Success with Chris Livingston! 🏗️🔧 🔥 ATTENTION Construction Pros & Project Managers! 🔥 In this exclusive Discover East County interview, we sit down with Chris Livingston, the mastermind behind Titan Steel Fabricators, to uncover the SECRETS behind their industry-leading steel fabrication services! 🏆 Key Highlights: • Cutting...

Realtors & homeowners - got a property that needs clearing? J&B Solutions is your local junk removal expert!   When they take on a job, they handle it ALL: - Getting properties ready for listing - Hauling those oversized items trash services won't take - Helping with spring cleaning projects - Managing estate cleanoutsTheir team tackles everything from old appliances to yard debr...

Exciting episode alert! Today on Discover East County, I sat down with the amazing team at EC Solar Panel Cleaning - your local solar maintenance experts!   Did you know dirty panels can reduce your energy savings by up to 25%? With sunny days ahead, now's the perfect time to get those panels sparkling clean and maximize your electric bill savings!  What I love about EC Solar P...